Mastering tick-tock.
Not to be confused with the similarly named (if differently spelled) social media platform, Realtors® need to prioritize time management in order to manage stress effectively. Setting boundaries between work and personal life is essential to prevent burnout. That’s especially tough in today’s world, where a deal can be closed from the bleachers at your kid’s soccer game.
Practical tip: Identify time wasters. Sure, social media can be fun. Checking out the latest fashion trends on Pinterest might provide a much-needed break…until you find yourself still scrolling 45 minutes later.
Serenity…NOW!
Make self-care practices a routine part of your daily life. Regular exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep can go a long way in alleviating stress. And don’t forget about how stress affects your brain. According to the American Psychological Association (apa.org), “Our bodies are well equipped to handle stress in small doses, but when that stress becomes long-term or chronic, it can have serious effects on your body.” Research has shown that long-term exposure to stress can shrink brain size, lower your ability to learn and retain information, and cause depression, anxiety, and even PTSD.
Practical tip: A simple Google search will pull up page after page of tips for stress reduction through self-care. Make sure that you find ways to stop negative self-talk as that can sabotage your healthy efforts.
The power of positivity.
Developing a positive mindset is key to resilience. Viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning can shift perspective and reduce stress. Flexibility and adaptability are also crucial traits for success in the ever-changing real estate landscape. Learning from setbacks and failures allows Realtors® to bounce back stronger and more resilient than before. And if you think positivity is just for Pollyanna, a Johns Hopkins study1 found that “…people with a family history of heart disease who also had a positive outlook were one-third less likely to have a heart attack or other cardiovascular event within five to 25 years than those with a more negative outlook.”
Practical tip: Practice the art of reframing. Be aware of negative thoughts, and when one pops up, reflect on it. Is it accurate? How likely is it to happen? Why am I thinking this? Then work at replacing the negatives with positives. Practice gratitude and be gentle with yourself.
Swipe right on social connections.
Having time alone to process emotions and recharge can be a very valuable thing. But don’t forget to also seek support from coworkers, friends, or family. Having those social connections can make you feel valued, supported, and cared for. And if you’re still feeling like stress is getting the better of you, don’t discount the value of seeing a mental health professional. They can provide much-needed encouragement and guidance.
Practical tip: Helping others is a wonderful thing—and science can back that up. According to Psycom.net, “research has shown that altruistic behavior can activate the reward center of our brains and reduce stress levels.” Volunteer in your community for a boost of endorphins, or start a “one good deed a day” challenge with yourself.
Ctrl+Alt+Zen.
In today's digital age, technology can be a Realtor's® best friend. Real estate management software and apps can streamline workflow and keep tasks organized. Virtual tours and remote communication tools reduce the stress associated with constant travel. Staying informed through data analytics and leveraging social media for networking are also invaluable tools for success.
Practical tip: Using tech to help you manage your business can be like having your own personal assistant. But don’t forget to check out all the great apps that can be used to track sleep, instruct you through a quick workout, or lead you through a much-needed meditation.
The world of real estate is fast-paced, and stress management is essential for maintaining well-being and productivity. By making time management a priority, practicing self-care, utilizing technology, and cultivating resilience, realtors can find balance in this demanding profession. And remember, finding balance is not a luxury—it's a necessity for thriving in the competitive real estate industry of today.